Sustainable Landscaping: Healthy Environments

Plant selection - conserving water

by Carl Salsedo, Ph.D.

Extension Educator, Horticulture

Water has become the limiting factor in many communities, especially during hot dry spells. Landscaping to minimize watering also referred to as "xeriscaping" includes careful planning, using drought resistant plant varieties, and improving soils or using mulches to help retain moisture in the soil. Many varieties of native or non-invasive ornamental plants are adaptable to dry landscapes. See the table and pictures below to select plants.